Table of Contents
Suraj Kumar Chand Ends India’s 16-Year Wait for Squash Gold
India finally ended a long wait for gold at the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash in Mumbai, with Suraj Kumar Chand producing a memorable performance in the men’s singles event.
Chand defeated Hungary’s Benedek Takács in a hard-fought five-game final to claim the gold medal and give India a major moment on home soil.
The victory ended a 16-year wait for India to win the men’s singles gold at the World University Championship.
Tough Final Goes Down to Five Games
The final between Chand and Takács was closely contested, with neither player willing to give up easily.
After four games, the match was still finely balanced, setting up a decisive fifth game. Chand held his nerve when it mattered most and completed the victory to secure the biggest title of his university-level career.
Playing in front of a home crowd in Mumbai added another layer to the occasion, with Indian supporters backing Chand throughout the contest.
A Historic Moment for Indian Squash
Chand’s gold medal is significant for Indian squash, particularly because of the lengthy gap since the country’s previous men’s singles gold at the event.
The achievement also highlights the growing strength of India’s university-level squash programme. With more young players competing internationally, performances such as Chand’s could provide further encouragement to the next generation.
India Also Wins Silver in Team Event
India’s success was not limited to the individual competition.
The Indian contingent put up a strong fight against Hong Kong in the team event. After a competitive battle, India finished with the silver medal.
Although the team narrowly missed out on gold, the silver added another medal to India’s overall campaign and showed the depth of talent available in the squad.
Mumbai Provides a Memorable Home Stage
Hosting the championship in Mumbai made the tournament particularly special for the Indian contingent.
Competing at home gave Indian players the opportunity to perform in front of local supporters while also showcasing the country’s squash talent to an international audience.
For Chand, the setting proved ideal as he produced the performance of his campaign when the gold medal was on the line.
What Chand’s Victory Means for Indian Squash
The win is more than just another medal on India’s tally. It gives greater visibility to university-level squash and shows that Indian players can compete successfully against strong international opposition.
Chand’s performance could also encourage more young athletes to consider squash as a serious competitive career, particularly as India continues to build a strong presence in the sport.
Final Thoughts
Suraj Kumar Chand’s gold medal in Mumbai has given Indian squash a moment to remember.
After a 16-year wait, India has once again won the men’s singles gold at the World University Championship, with Chand overcoming Hungary’s Benedek Takács in a thrilling five-game final.
The Indian team’s silver medal in the team event made the campaign even more successful, giving Indian squash fans plenty to celebrate on home soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the men’s singles gold for India?
Suraj Kumar Chand won the men’s singles gold medal for India at the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash.
Who did Suraj Kumar Chand defeat in the final?
Chand defeated Hungary’s Benedek Takács in a five-game final to win the gold medal.
How long had India waited for this gold?
Chand ended a 16-year wait for India to win the men’s singles gold at the World University Championship.
Where was the championship held?
The 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash was held in Mumbai, India.
Did India win another medal in the tournament?
Yes. India also won the silver medal in the team event after a strong contest against Hong Kong.
What was significant about Chand’s victory?
His victory ended India’s long wait for men’s singles gold at the university-level world championship and marked an important achievement for Indian squash.
How did Suraj Kumar Chand perform in the final?
Chand remained composed through a closely contested five-game match and managed to overcome Takács in the deciding game.
